
Our Story
ABOUT CHABAD'S KAPLAN PRESCHOOL
After successfully running mommy and me programs for six years, the parents unsurprisingly requested that Chabad of Sarasota start a preschool. Since 1997 we are proud to serve the community, and provide a haven where every child entrusted in our care is given countless opportunities to grow and develop to be well-rounded and successful individuals.
Serving the educational needs of children two and one half to five years old, we look forward to opening up new worlds for your child in fun and stimulating ways. I am pleased that you have chosen our school as a home away from home for your child. Here at Chabad’s Kaplan Preschool, we are committed to creating a warm, friendly and happy environment for your child, while simultaneously assisting your child in developing a strong positive awareness of his/her Jewish identity. Along with Judaic themes and holidays, the curriculum at the Kaplan Preschool will expose the children to a wide range of experiences including art, movement, early literacy, math skills, blocks and dramatic play, which are all integrated into our hands-on learning centers. The Kaplan Preschool is committed to excellence, and will prepare your child for a wonderful future ahead. It is well known that the years prior to kindergarten are the most critical in inculcating children with optimal cognitive, social and ethical learning, and we are passionate about helping each child reach his or her fullest potential.
About the Preschool Director

Sara Steinmetz started the Chabad Kaplan Preschool in 1997. The preschool stemmed from “Mommy and Me” groups, which she facilitated from 1991- 2001 with great success. Sara has a teaching certificate from the Beth Rivkah Teacher’s College in Israel; as well as a FCCPC - Florida Child Care Professional Certificate.
Sara is passionate about educating her young students and serving as a mentor to parents. In addition to serving as Preschool Director, Sara is also the school’s Judaica Specialist, which means that she gets to enjoy a special time each day with the students cultivating a love for Judaism and Jewish holidays. Sara is a mother to 10 children, and enjoys cooking.
Morah Sara Steinmetz
Meet Our Teachers

Morah Rebecca Hughes
Rebecca has been teaching in a preschool for several years. She has an FCCPC (Florida Child Care Professional Credential), Director Credential and an Associate's Degree in Early Learning Childhood in addition Rebecca specializes in early intervention. She is currently working towards her Bachelor's Degree. She strives to provide a safe and loving learning environment. Rebecca's hobbies include traveling, kayaking, and journaling.

Morah Jennifer Damasco
Jennifer has been teaching in a preschool for 19 years. She has an FCCPC (Florida Child Care Professional Credential). Jennifer strives to provide children with special skills to recognize and communicate their feelings with confidence, creativity and self-expression while fostering kindness through a stimulating and nurturing environment. Jennifer has two children of her own. Her hobbies include jewelry making, singing, photography, craft, scrap booking and the outdoors.

Morah Jane Hoffman
Jane Hoffman has been teaching our music class since 2008. She loves the children and loves being part of the Jewish community in this way. She is also Principal flutist with the Sarasota POPS, adjunct faculty member at State College of Florida, adjunct woodwind coach at Booker Middle School, flute coach at Riverview High School.